For many teenagers, wisdom teeth removal is an important part of the dental care process. As a parent, you may have questions such as: What are wisdom teeth? Why do they need to be removed? What does the procedure involve?
This blog will answer these questions and more so that you can make an informed decision about removal of wisdom teeth for your teen.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually come during the late teens and early adult years between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. While these teeth can come in without issue, often, they become impacted or misaligned due to a lack of room in the mouth. If left untreated, this can lead to pain, infection, or damage to other permanent teeth.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
When wisdom teeth are impacted or misaligned, they can cause a range of problems, including:
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Crowding and shifting of the existing teeth
- Increased risk of tooth decay and infection
In these cases, it is often recommended that the wisdom teeth be removed to keep the mouth healthy.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Before Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, it may be best to remove the wisdom teeth before beginning any orthodontic treatment. Wisdom teeth can cause crowding and misalignment of existing teeth, so removing them can help make orthodontic treatment more successful.
Preparing For Surgery
If wisdom teeth removal is recommended, your dentist will discuss the procedure and what to expect. Before surgery, it’s important to talk with your teen about the importance of following all pre-operative instructions, such as avoiding certain medications or supplements and not eating after midnight on the day of the procedure.
Recovery After Surgery
Your teen will need to rest for a few days after surgery. They may experience swelling, pain, and some bleeding, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for the area after removal, including what medications can be taken for pain or infection.
Instructions may include the following:
- Eat soft foods.
- Rinse with salt water.
- Use ice to reduce swelling.
- Avoid strenuous activity for a few days
- Practice good oral hygiene
Follow Up
Your teen may need to return for a follow-up appointment after the removal of the wisdom teeth. During this visit, your dentist will check on healing and discuss any lifestyle changes needed for optimal oral health.
Sedation Methods
We offer four types of sedation methods for the removal of wisdom teeth: nitrous oxide, oral sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anesthesia. Your dentist will discuss the options with you to determine which is best for your teen.
- Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is inhaled and helps you relax during the procedure.
- Oral sedation involves taking a pill prior to the procedure that makes you feel drowsy but still conscious enough to respond to instructions.
- IV sedation allows for a deeper level of sedation and is administered through an IV in the arm.
- General anesthesia renders you unconscious during the procedure.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Denver
If your teen needs wisdom teeth removal, it is best to have the procedure done by an experienced dentist. At Youth Dental & Vision, we specialize in wisdom teeth removal and other dental services such as root canals, dental crowns & sedation dentistry.
We strive to ensure your teen is comfortable throughout the entire process and that they are well informed of what to expect before and after the removal.
If you are looking for wisdom teeth removal near me, contact the experts at Youth Dental & Vision. To schedule an appointment, call (720) 575-1250 or complete the online booking form.
For wisdom teeth removal in Denver, CO, wisdom teeth removal in Aurora, CO, or wisdom teeth removal in Thornton, CO, we have you covered.